Category Archives: Studies in the Life of Christ

Lesson 1

The Life and Mission of Jesus Christ on Earth – John 1:1-18; Luke1:1-4

Most lessons will come with an introduction and be more difficult than this one. As you study these lessons please write any questions you have and we will answer them at the end of the questions at the end of this lesson.

John 1:1-18

{1} In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. {2} He was in the beginning with God. 3} All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. {4} In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. {5} And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. {6} There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. {7} This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all through him might believe. {8} He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. {9} That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world. {10} He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. {11} He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. {12} But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: {13} who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. {14} And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. {15} John bore witness of Him and cried out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me is preferred before me, for He was before me.’” {16} And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. {17} For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth ‘came through Jesus Christ. {18}No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him.

Luke 1:1-4 {1}

Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, {2} just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, {3} it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, {4} that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.

Questions on Lesson One

1. Those who believe on the Word’s name are born of what?

2. What did the world (darkness) not do in its relationship to the Light?

3. Everything that has been created was created by whom?

4. To what event does “in the beginning” refer

5. Who alone can declare God to man? (See also John 14:8-13)

6. Describe the glory of the Word.

7. Which of the four biographical writers of the gospel were apostles? (See Matt. 10:2-4)

8. Has any man seen God at any time?

9. Who was in the beginning with God?

10. Who did not receive the Word?

11. The Word became what?

12. Why did Luke write his record of the life of Jesus?

13. Which verse shows John’s (the Baptizer) recognition of his own mission and manifest his; humility?

14. What was the name of the man who was “sent from God”?

15. What is found in the Word which is the light of men?

16. To whom did Luke address his account of the gospel? What does this name mean?

17. What was John the Baptizer’s mission?

18. Why was Luke a competent biographer of Jesus?

19. What was given to those who did receive the Word?

20. What came by Jesus Christ?

Questions on Lesson One

1. Those who believe on the Word’s name are born of what? (God) John 1:12-13

2. What did the world (darkness) not do in its relationship to the Light? (comprehend it) John 1:5

3. Everything that has been created was created by whom? (The Word) John 1:3

4. To what event does “in the beginning” refer? (the Creation)

5. Who alone can declare God to man? (See also John 14:8-13) (the Son) John 1:18

6. Describe the glory of the Word. (the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) John 1:14

7. Which of the four biographical writers of the gospel were apostles? (See Matt. 10:2-4) Matt.John.

8. Has any man seen God at any time?(no) John 1:18

9. Who was in the beginning with God? (Word – Christ) John 1:1

10. Who did not receive the Word? (His own – Jews) John 1:11

11. The Word became what? (flesh) John 1:14

12. Why did Luke write his record of the life of Jesus? (To give Theophilus an orderly account) Luke 1:3

13. Which verse shows John’s (the Baptizer) recognition of his own mission and manifest his; humility? (He is preferred before me) John 1:15

14. What was the name of the man who was “sent from God”? (John) John 1:6

15. What is found in the Word which is the light of men? (Life) John 1:4

16. To whom did Luke address his account of the gospel? What does this name mean? (Theophilus) (Friend of God)

17. What was John the Baptizer’s mission? (Bear witness of the light) John 1:7

Lesson 2

The Life and Mission of Jesus Christ-on Earth

In this lesson we will study the annunciation of John the Baptizer’s birth (Lk. 1:5-25), the espousal of the virgin Mary (Matt. 1:18; Lk. 1:27), the annunciation of Jesus’ birth (Lk. 1:26-38), Mary’s visit with Elizabeth (Lk. 1:39-55), her return to Nazareth (Lk. 1:56), Joseph’s vision in which he was told of Mary’s conception by the Holy Spirit (Matt 1:20-25), the birth of John the Baptizer (Lk, 1:57-80), and the genealogies of Jesus the Messiah (Matt. 1:1-17; Lk. 3:23-38).

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Luke 1:5-80

{5} There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. {6} And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. {7} But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years. (8} So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, {9} according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord {10} And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. {11} Then an. angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. {12} And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. {13} But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. {14} “And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. {15} “For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb, {16} “And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. {17} “He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” {18} And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall 1 know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” {19} And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. {20} “But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.” {21} And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple, {22} But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless. {23} And so it was, as soon as the days of his ministration were completed, that he departed to his own house. {24} Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, {25} “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.” {26} Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, {27} to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. {28} And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” {29} But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. {30} Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God {31} “And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. {32} “He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. {33} “And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.” {34} Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” {35} And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God, {36} “Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. {37} “For with God nothing will be impossible.” {38} Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word,” And the angel departed from her. {39} Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, {40} and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. {41} And it happened when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. {42} Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! {43} “But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? {44} “For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. {45} “Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.” {46} And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, {47} And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior, {48} For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed {49} For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. {50} And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. {51} He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagi-nation of their hearts. {52} He has put down the princes from their thrones, And exalted the lowly.(53} He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty, {54} He has helped His servant Israel, in remembrance of His mercy, {55} As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.” {56} And Mary remained with her about three months, and returned to her house. {57} Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. {58} When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her. {59} So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. {60} His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” {61} But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” {62} So they made signs to his father; what he would have him called. {63} And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. {64} Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. {65} Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. {66} And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him. [67} Now his fa-ther Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying; {68} “Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, {69} And has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of His servant David, {70} As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets. Who have been since the world began, {71} That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, {72} To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, {73} The oath which He swore to our father Abraham; {74} To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, {75} in holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life. {76} “And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, {77} To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, {78} Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us; {79} To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, To guide our feet into the way of peace.” {80} So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.

Luke 3:23-38

{23} Now Jesus Himself began His ministry at about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, the son of Heli, {24} the son of Mat-that, the son of Levi, the son of Melchi, the son of Janna, the son of Joseph, {25} the son of Mattathiah, the son of Amos, the son of Nahum, the son of Esli, the son of Naggai, {26} the son of Maath, the son of Mattathiah, the son of Semei, the son of Joseph, the son of Judah., {27} the son of Joanna, the son of Rhesa, the son of Zerubbabel, the son of Shealtiel, the son of Neri, {28} the son of Melchi, the son of Addi, the son of Cosam, the son of Elmodam, the son of Er, {29} the son of Jose, the son of Eliezer, the son of Jorim, the son of Matthat, the son of Levi., {30} the son of Simeon, the son of Judah, the son of Joseph, the son of Jonan, the son of Eliakirn, {31} the son of Me-lea, the son of Menan, the son of Mattathah, the son of Nathan, the son of David, {32} the son of Jesse, the son of Obed, the son of Boaz, the son of Salmon, the son of Nahshon, (33} the son of Amminadab, the son of Rain, the son of Hezron, the son of Perez, the son of Judah, {34} the son of Jacob, the son of Isaac, the son of Abraham, the son of Terah, the son of Nahor, {35} the son of Serug, the son of Reu, the son of Peleg, the son of Eber, the son of Shelah, {36 the son of Cainan, the son of Arphaxad, the son of Shem, the son of Noah, the son of Lamech, {37} the son of Methuselah , the son of Enoch, the son of Jared, the son of Mahalalel, the son of Cainan, {38] the son of Enos, the son of Seth, the son of Adam, the son of God.

Matthew 1:1-25

{1) The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ., the Son of David, the Son of Abraham: {2} Abraham begot Isaac, Isaac begot Jacob, and Jacob begot Judah and his brothers. [3} Judah begot Perez and Zerah by Tamar, Perez begot Hezron, and Hezron begot Ram. {4} Ram begot Amminadab, Amminadab begot Nahshon, andNahshon begot Salmon. {5} Salmon begot Boaz by Rahab, Boaz begot Obed by Ruth, Obed begot Jesse, {6} and Jesse begot David the king. David the king begot Solomon by her who had been the wife of Uriah. {7} Solomon begot Rehoboam, Re-hoboam begot Abijah, and Abijah begot Asa. {8] Asa begot Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat begot Joram, and Jo-ram begot Uzziah, {9} Uzziah begot Jotham, Jotiham begot Ahaz, and Ahaz begot Hezekiah, {10} Hezekiah begot Manasseh, Manasseh begot Amon, and Amon begot Josiah. {11} Josiah begot Jeconiah and his ” brothers about the time they were carried away to Babylon{12} And after they were brought to Babylon, Jeconiah begot Shealtiel, and Shealtiel begot Zerubbabel. {13} Zerubbabel begot Abiud, Abiud begot Eliakim, and Eliakim begot Azor. {14} Azor begot Zadok, Zadok begot Achim, and Achim begot Eliud. {15} Eliud begot Eleazar, Eleazar begot Matthan, and Matthan begot Jacob. {16} And Jacob begot Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus who is called Christ. {17} So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations, from David until the captivity in Babylon are fourteen generations, and from the captivity in Babylon until the Christ are fourteen generations. {18} Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. {19} Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. {20} But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying,, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. {21} “And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” {22} So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: {23} “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” {24} Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife, {25} and did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son. And he called His name JESUS.

Questions On Lesson Two

1. John was how much older than Jesus?)
2. What was to be John’s mission?
3. What was Zacharias’ job in the temple?
4. Whom did Mary visit upon hearing that she was to be the mother of Jesus?
5. What did the angel tell Joseph that Jesus should do?
6. Who was Jesse’s father?
7. What name was first proposed for John?
8. Zacharias was a priest of the course of whom?
9. John was to perform his work in the spirit and power of whom?
10. What happened to Zacharias because he did not believe the angel?)
11. “And he will reign over the _____ __ _____ forever, and of his _________ there will be no ___ .”
12. What Old Testament prophecy was fulfilled in Mary’s conception?
13. What did Zacharias say that John should be called?
14. Luke’s account traces the ancestry of Jesus back through whom and to whom? Matthew begins with whom?
15. What was the name of the angel who told Zacharias of the forthcoming birth of John?
16. Zacharias’ new son was not to drink what?
17. What is the meaning of Emmanuel?
18. Where did John abide until the day of his showing unto Israel? 19. How long did Mary visit in Judah?
20. What was Joseph’s first intention upon learning of Mary’s conception?
21. Who was Joseph’s father?
22. What was Jesus to be called?

Questions On Lesson Two

1. John was how much older than Jesus? (Six months, c 1:36)
2. What was to be John’s mission? (To turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord, c 1:17)
3. What was Zacharias’ job in the temple? (Burning the incense, c 1:9)
4. Whom did Mary visit upon hearing that she was to be the mother of Jesus? (Elizabeth, c 1:40)
5. What did the angel tell Joseph that Jesus should do?(“He shall save his people from sins”, a 1:21)
6. Who was Jesse’s father? (Obed, a 1:5)
7. What name was first proposed for John? (Zecharias, c 1:59)
8. Zacharias was a priest of the course of whom? (Abijah, c 1:5)
9. John was to perform his work in the spirit and power of whom? (Elias or Elijah, c 1:17)
10. What happened to Zacharias because he did not believe the angel? (Stricken dumb, c 1:20)
11. “And he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” (c 1:33)
12. What Old Testament prophecy was fulfilled in Mary’s conception? (Isa. 7:14)
13. What did Zacharias say that John should be called?(John, c 1:63-76)
14. Luke’s account traces the ancestry of Jesus back through whom and to whom? Matthew begins with whom? (Luke from Joseph to Adam, and Matthew begins with Abraham)
15. What was the name of the angel who told Zacharias of the forthcoming birth of John? (Gabriel, c 1:19)
16. Zacharias’ new son was not to drink what?(Wine nor any strong drink, c 1:15)
17. What is the meaning of Emmanuel? (“God with us,” a 1:23)
18. Where did John abide until the day of his showing unto Israel? (In the deserts, c 1:80)
19. How long did Mary visit in Judah? (Three months, c 1:56)
20. What was Joseph’s first intention upon learning of Mary’s conception? (He intended to put her away privately, a 1:19)
21. Who was Joseph’s father? (Jacob, a 1:16)
22. What was Jesus to be called? (Emmanuel, a 1:23)

Lesson 3

The Life and Mission of Jesus Christ on Earth

Lesson Three — Luke 2:1-52 (Parallel Scripture, Matt. 2:1-23)

Summary of Lesson

In this lesson we will study the entire childhood of Jesus, which constitutes the first period of His life, and includes all events of His life mentioned in the New Testament from His birth until the inauguration of His ministry when He was about thirty years of age. The main events of this study are: the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, the shepherds’ adoration in Bethlehem, the circumcision of Jesus, His presentation in the temple at Jerusalem forty days after His birth, the return to Bethlehem and the visit of the wise men, the flight into Egypt, the massacre of the innocent children, the return to and settlement in Nazareth upon the death of Herod the Great, the childhood of Jesus, the visit to the temple at the age of twelve, and Jesus’ youth.

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Luke 2:1-52

{1} And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. {2} This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. {3} So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. {4} Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, {5} to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. {6} So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. {7} And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. {8} Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. {9} And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. {10} Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. {11} “For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. {12} “And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe
wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” {13} And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: {14} “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” {15} So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” {16} And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. {17} Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. {18} And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. {19} But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. {20} Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them. {21} And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called JESUS, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb. {22} Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord {23} (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the LORD”), {24} and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.” {25} And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. {26} And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. {27} So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, {28} he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said: {29} “Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; {30} For my eyes have seen Your salvation {31} Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, {32} A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.” {33} And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. {34} Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against {35} “(yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” {36} Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; {37} and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. {38} And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem. {39} So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. {40} And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him. {41} His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. {42} And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. {43} When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; {44} but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. {45} So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. {46} Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. {47} And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. {48} So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.” {49} And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” {50} But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them. {51} Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. {52} And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.

Matthew 2:1-23

{1} Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, {2} saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have
seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” {3} When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. {4} And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. {5} So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet: {6} ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.’” {7} Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared. {8} And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also.” {9} When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was. {10} When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. {11} And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. {12} Then, being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country another way. {13} Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him.” {14} When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt, {15} and was there until the death of Herod, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, “Out of
Egypt I called My Son.” {16} Then Herod, when he saw that he was deceived by the wise men, was exceedingly angry; and he sent forth and put to death all the male children who were in Bethlehem and in all its districts, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had determined from the wise men. {17} Then was fulfilled what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying: {18} “A voice was heard in Ramah, Lamentation, weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, Refusing to be comforted, Because they are no more.” {19} But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, {20} saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the young Child’s life are dead.” {21} Then he arose, took the young Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel. {22} But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea instead of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. And being warned by God in a dream, he turned aside into the region of Galilee. {23} And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, “He shall be called a Nazarene.”

Questions On Lesson Three

1. What did Joseph and Mary do each year?
2. For what purpose did the wise men desire to see Jesus?
3. Why did Joseph return from Egypt into Galilee instead of Judea?
4. Unto whom had the Holy Spirit made the promise that he would not die until he had seen the Messiah?
5. Who decreed that all the world should be taxed?
6. “But Mary ________ all these things, and ____________ them in her heart.”
7. How did God warn the wise men not to see Herod again?
8. Why were Joseph and Mary not alarmed at the fact that Jesus was not with them on the first day of their return journey?
9. How old was Jesus at His presentation in the temple?
10. Of whose house was Joseph?
11. What was the name of the aged widow who gave thanks to the Lord the Messiah?
12. Why did Herod think that he could learn of the birthplace of Jesus by gathering together the chief priests and scribes?
13. How many days did it take Joseph and Mary to locate Jesus?
14. What was offered as a sacrifice at Jesus’ presentation?
15. “And Jesus increased in ___________ and ____________ , and in _________ with God and ________.”
16. Of what tribe was Phanuel?
17. What Old Testament prophet prophesied concerning the massacre of the innocent children?
18. Who was governor of Syria during the taxing?
19. At what age did Jesus attend His first Passover?
20. What caused the shepherds in the fields to become “sore afraid”?
21. Babies of what age were ordered by Herod to be slain?
22. At what age was Jesus named?

Questions On Lesson Three

1. What did Joseph and Mary do each year? (Went to Jerusalem to attend the Passover, c 2:41)

2. For what purpose did the wise men desire to see Jesus? (To worship Him, a 2:2)

3. Why did Joseph return from Egypt into Galilee instead of Judea? (He had heard that Archelaus was reigning in place of his father, Herod, in Judea and was warned by God in a dream not to go there, a 2:22)

4. Unto whom had the Holy Spirit made the promise that he would not die until he had seen the Mes- siah? (Simeon, c 2:25,26)

5. Who decreed that all the world should be taxed? (Caesar Augustus, c 2:1)

6. “But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.” (c 2:19)

7. How did God warn the wise men not to see Herod again? (They were warned by God in a dream, c 2:12)

8. Why were Joseph and Mary not alarmed at the fact that Jesus was not with them on the first day of their return journey? (They supposed that He was with some of their relatives travelling with them, c 2:44)

9. How old was Jesus at His presentation in the temple? (Forty days (see summary)

10. Of whose house was Joseph? (He was of the house and lineage of David, c 2:4)

11. What was the name of the aged widow who gave thanks to the Lord the Messiah? (Anna, c 2:36)

12. Why did Herod think that he could learn of the birthplace of Jesus by gathering together the chief priests and scribes? (He knew of the O.T. prophets and their predictions concerning the birthplace of the Messiah and the Chief Priests and Scribes knew the O.T., a 2:4)

13. How many days did it take Joseph and Mary to locate Jesus? (Three days, c 2:46)

14. What was offered as a sacrifice at Jesus’ presentation? (A pair of turtledoves or 2 young pigeons,c 2:24)

15. “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature , and in favor with God and man.” ( c 2:52)

16. Of what tribe was Phanuel? (Aser or Asshur, c 2:36)

17. What Old Testament prophet prophesied concerning the massacre of the innocent children? (Jere- miah, a 2:17)

18. Who was governor of Syria during the taxing? (Cyrenius, c 2:2)

19. At what age did Jesus attend His first Passover? (Twelve years old, c 2:42)

20. What caused the shepherds in the fields to become “sore afraid”? (An angel of the Lord came upon them and the glory of the Lord shone around them, c 2:9)

21. Babies of what age were ordered by Herod to be slain? (Two years old and younger, a 2:16)

Lesson 4

The Life, and Mission of Jesus Christ on Earth

Lesson Four -Luke 3:1 -22 {Mk, 1:1-11; Mt 3:1-17; Jn, 1:6-8,15,19-36)

Summary of Lesson

In this lesson we shall study the mission of John the baptizer as recorded in the four accounts of the gospel. Luke begins by dating the time of John’s work, and then, as do also Matthew and Mark, shows that John’s work (mission) is the fulfillment of an Old Testament prophecy. All of the accounts then tell us of the content and nature of John’s preaching and its results. As John was questioned concerning his identity, he confessed that he was not the Messiah, and then testified concerning Jesus, the Messiah who was to come after him. Following this, Jesus came to John to be baptized of him “to fulfill all righteousness.” Then, John records for us John the baptizer’s second testimony concerning the Christ (John 1:29-36), and tells us of John pointing out Jesus to two men, one of whom (at least) later became an apostle of Jesus. To all of this, Luke adds information about John’s imprisonment and the reason for it.

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Luke 3:1-22

{1} Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, {2} Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. {3} And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins; {4} As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness. Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. {5} Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; {6} And all flesh shall see the salvation of God. {7} Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? {8} Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within your-selves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. {9} And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. {10} And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then? {11} He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise. {12} Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him. Master, what shall we do? {13} And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you. {14} And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages. {15} And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not; {16} John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes 1 am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire: {17} Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and will gather the wheat into his garner; but the chaff he will burn with fire unquenchable. {18} And many other things in his exhortation preached he good tidings unto the people. (19) But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him for Herodias his brothers wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done. (20) Added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison. {21} Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, {22} And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee 1 am well pleased.

Mark 1:1-11

{l}The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; {2} As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. {3} The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. {4} John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. {5} And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins. {6} And John was clothed with camel’s hair, and with a girdle of a skin about his loins; and he did eat locusts and wild honey; {7} And preached, saying, There cotneth one mightier than I after me, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and unloose. {8} I indeed have baptized you with water; but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost. {9} And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. {10} And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him: {11} And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

Matthew 3:1-17

{1} In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, {2} And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. {3} For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. {4} And the same John had his raiment of camel’s hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey. {5} Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, {6} And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins, {7} But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? {8} Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: {9} And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. {10} And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. {11} I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: {12} Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the gamer; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire. {13} Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. {14} But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? {15} And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness. Then he suffered him. {16} And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: {17} And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

John 1:6-8,15,19-36

{6} There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. {7} The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. {8} He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.

{15} John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me.

{19} And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou? {20} And he confessed, and denied not; but confessed, I am not the Christ {21} And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And he saith, I am not. Art thou that prophet? And he answered, No. {22} Then said they unto him, Who art thou? that we may give an answer to them that sent us. What sayest thou of thyself? {23} He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias. {24} And they which were sent were of the Pharisees. {25} And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet? {26} John answered them, saying, I baptize with water: but there standeth one among you, whom ye know not; {27} He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe’s latchet I am not worthy to unloose. {28} These things were done in Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing. {29} The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. {30} This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me. {31} And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water. {32} And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit de-scending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him, {33} And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost. {34} And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God. {35} Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples; {36} And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!

Questions On Lesson Four

1. Where did John baptize?

2. What Old Testament prophet foretold the mission of John the baptizer?

3. What of the trees that do not bear fruit?

4. What was the testimony of the voice heard at the baptism of Jesus?

5. Over what areas of Palestine did Philip the tetrarch reign?

6. Who was responsible for John’s imprisonment?

7. Whom did the people seem to think that John was? (3 answers)

8. What was the theme of John’s preaching?

9. Fom where did Jesus come to be baptized by John?

10. What was the purpose of John’s baptism?

11. Who served as high priests when John was peaching?

12. Whom did the Jews send to John to inquire of his identity?

13. What did John call the Pharisees and Sadducees?

14. What reason did Jesus give for His need to be baptized?

15. What instructions did John give to the publicans?

16. “Behold, the ________ of ____, which _______ away the ________ of the ____________ .”

Lesson 5

The Life and Mission of Jesus Christ on Earth

Lesson Five — Matt. 4:1-11 (Mk. 1:12.13; Luke 4:1-13; Jn. 1:29-51)

Summary of Lesson

In this lesson we begin the study of the life of Christ as He prepares to enter His ministry. Immediately after His baptism, Jesus was led into the wilderness to be tempted for a period of forty days, during which Satan used all three avenues of temptation on Jesus — the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh and the vainglory of life. All three efforts in tempting Jesus failed, as Jesus answered each of them with the scriptures (“it is written”) and refrained from sinning (see Heb. 4:15). After His temptation He came back to Bethabara where John was preaching, testifying to his hearers concerning the deity of Jesus (John 1:29-36). On this occasion Jesus met some who would become His disciples.

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*Matt. 4:1-11

{1} Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. {2} And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, afterward He was hungry. {3} Now when the tempter came to Him, he said, “If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread.” {4} But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’” {5} Then the devil took Him up into the holy city, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, {6} and said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down. For it is written: ‘He shall give His angels charge over you,’ and, ‘In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone.’” {7} Jesus said to him, “It is written again, ‘You shall not tempt the LORD your God.’” {8} Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. {9} And he said to Him, “All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me.” {10} Then Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.’” {11} Then the devil left Him, and behold, angels came and ministered to Him.

Mark 1:12,13

{12} Immediately the Spirit drove Him into the wilderness. {13} And He was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan, and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered to Him.

Luke 4:1-13

{1} Then Jesus, being filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, {2} being tempted for forty days by the devil. And in those days He ate nothing, and afterward, when they had ended, He was hungry. {3} And the devil said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread.” {4} But Jesus answered him, saying, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.’” {5} Then the devil, taking Him up on a high mountain, showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. {6} And the devil said to Him, “All this authority I will give You, and their glory; for this has been delivered to me, and I give it to whomever I wish. {7} “Therefore, if You will worship before me, all will be Yours.” {8} And Jesus answered and said to him, “Get behind Me, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.’” {9} Then he brought Him to Jerusalem, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down from here. {10} “For it is written: ‘He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you,’ {11} “and, ‘In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone.’” {12} And Jesus answered and said to him, “It has been said, ‘You shall not tempt the LORD your God.’” {13} Now when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from Him until an opportune time.

John 1:29-51

{29} The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! {30} “This is He of whom I said, ‘After me comes a Man who is preferred before me, for He was before me.’ {31} “I did not know Him; but that He should be revealed to Israel, therefore I came baptizing with water.” {32} And John bore witness, saying, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him. {33} “I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ {34} “And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.” {35} Again, the next day, John stood with two of his disciples. {36} And looking at Jesus as He walked, he said, “Behold the Lamb of God!” {37} The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. {38} Then Jesus turned, and seeing them following, said to them, “What do you seek?” They said to Him, “Rabbi” (which is to say, when translated, Teacher), “where are You staying?” {39} He said to them, “Come and see.” They came and saw where He was staying, and remained with Him that day (now it was about the tenth hour). {40} One of the two who heard John speak, and followed Him, was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. {41} He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated, the Christ). {42} And he brought him to Jesus. Now when Jesus looked at him, He said, “You are Simon the son of Jonah. You shall be called Cephas” (which is translated, A Stone). {43} The following day Jesus wanted to go to Galilee, and He found Philip and said to him, “Follow Me.” {44} Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. {45} Philip found Nathanael and said to him, “We have found Him of whom Moses in the law, and also the prophets, wrote; Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” {46} And Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.” {47} Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward Him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!” {48} Nathanael said to Him, “How do You know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” {49} Nathanael answered and said to Him, “Rabbi, You are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” {50} Jesus answered and said to him, “Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these.” {51} And He said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, hereafter you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.”

Questions on Lesson Five

1. What the meaning of Simon’s new name?
2. In what way did Jesus meet each of the three avenues of temptation offered by Satan?
3. Who ministered unto Christ after His temptation?
4. For how long did Satan depart from Jesus after His temptation?
5. What is the meaning of “Rabbi”?
6. When Nathaniel came to Jesus, what did Jesus say to him? (What does this tell us about Jesus? See John 2:24,25.)
7. What did Satan promise to give Jesus if He would worship Him?
8. What was with Jesus during His forty days of temptation?
9. Whom did Andrew tell Peter he had found?
10. By what shall man live?
11. By whom was Jesus driven into the wilderness?
12. Why did Nathaniel doubt that Philip had found the Messiah?
13. At what hour did the two disciples of John who began to follow Jesus decide to abide with Jesus?
14. Unto what two places did Satan take Jesus?
15. What did Jesus promise Nathaniel that he should see?
16. Whom only should men serve?
17. Unto what did Jesus change Simon’s name?
18. Why did John say that he came “baptizing in water”?

Lesson 6

The Life and Mission of Jesus Christ on Earth

Lesson Six — John 2:1-25; 3:1-21

Summary of Lesson

In this lesson Jesus leaves Bethabara (where John was baptizing, and where John had borne witness that Jesus was the Lamb of God (Jn. 1:35,36), and with His mother goes to Cana (in Galilee) where He attends a marriage feast and performs His first miracle (water into wine), after which they go to Capernaum (on northwest shore of the sea of Galilee). Following this, Jesus goes to Jerusalem to attend the Passover (the first one since beginning His ministry), and while there cleanses the temple, speaking of His resurrection so that many came to believe on Him. While in Jerusalem, Nicodemus comes to Him at night to question Him. The next lesson will deal with Jesus’ return to Galilee.

————————————————————————————————————————John 2:1-25

{1} On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. {2} Now both Jesus and His disciples were invited to the wedding. {3} And when they ran out of wine, the mother of Jesus said to Him, “They have no wine.” {4} Jesus said to her, “Woman, what does your concern have to do with Me? My hour has not yet come.” {5} His mother said to the servants, “Whatever He says to you, do it.” {6} Now there were set there six waterpots of stone, according to the manner of purification of the Jews, containing twenty or thirty gallons apiece. {7} Jesus said to them, “Fill the waterpots with water.” And they filled them up to the brim. {8} And He said to them, “Draw some out now, and take it to the master of the feast.” And they took it. {9} When the master of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and did not know where it came from (but the servants who had drawn the water knew), the master of the feast called the bridegroom. {10} And he said to him, “Every man at the beginning sets out the good wine, and when the guests have well drunk, then the inferior. You have kept the good wine until now!” {11} This beginning of signs Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory; and His disciples believed in Him. {12} After this He went down to Capernaum, He, His mother, His brothers, and His disciples; and they did not stay there many days. {13} Now the Passover of the Jews was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. {14} And He found in the temple those who sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the moneychangers doing business. {15} When He had made a whip of cords, He drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen, and poured out the changers’ money and overturned the tables. {16} And He said to those who sold doves, “Take these things away! Do not make My Father’s house a house of merchandise!” {17} Then His disciples remembered that it was written, “Zeal for Your house has eaten Me up.” {18} So the Jews answered and said to Him, “What sign do You show to us, since You do these things?” {19} Jesus answered and said to them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” {20} Then the Jews said, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will You raise it up in three days?” {21} But He was speaking of the temple of His body. {22} Therefore, when He had risen from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this to them; and they believed the Scripture and the word which Jesus had said. {23} Now when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover, during the feast, many believed in His name when they
saw the signs which He did. {24} But Jesus did not commit Himself to them, because He knew all men, {25} and had no need that anyone should testify of man, for He knew what was in man.

John 3:1-21

{1} There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. {2} This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.” {3} Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” {4} Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” {5} Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. {6} “That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. {7} “Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ {8} “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.” {9} Nicodemus answered and said to Him, “How can these things be?” {10} Jesus answered and said to him, “Are you the teacher of Israel, and do not know these things? {11} “Most assuredly, I say to you, We speak what We know and testify what We have seen, and you do not receive Our witness. {12} “If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things? {13} “No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven. {14} “And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, {15} “that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. {16} “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. {17} “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. {18} “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. {19} “And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. {20} “For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. {21} “But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God.

Questions on Lesson Six

1. What was the custom in setting out the wine at a marriage feast?
2. To where did Jesus go after the wedding?
3. Why did Nicodemus think Jesus was a teacher from God?
4. Jesus asked Nicodemus, “Art thou a _____________ of _________ ?”
5. Jesus commanded those in the temple not to make His Father’s house into what?
6. What do men love? Why?
7. Why did Jesus not commit Himself to men?
8. In what city did Jesus attend a marriage?
9. What will not happen to the man who believes on God’s son? (Two answers)
10. How long did it take to build the Jerusalem temple?
11. Whom did the governor (or, master) call upon when he tasted the new wine
12. When Jesus told Nicodemus that it was necessary to be born again in order to see the kingdom of God, what kind of birth did Necodemus think Jesus had in mind?
13. To what does the man who loves truth come? Why?
14. What reason did Jesus first give for not doing anything about the lack of wine at the marriage feast?
15. What ws Nicodemus?
16. What did Jesus go to Jerusalem to attend?
17. The Son of Man was to be lifted up like what else?
18. To what was Jesus referring when He said He would rebuild “this temple in three days?”
19. What does the man who believes on the Son of God have?
20. How much would each of the waterpots used by Jesus hold?
21. The new birth is a birth of the __________ and the __________.
22. What was the result of Jesus’ first miracle with the disciples?
23. What did Jesus find in the temple at Jerusalem?
24. For what purpose did God send His Son into the world?
25. Who is condemned already?

Lesson 7

The Life and Mission of Jesus Christ on Earth

After the conversation with Nicodemus, Jesus and His disciples went into Judea where He was baptizing and gaining many disciples. Hearing of this, some of John’s disciples questioned John about what seemed to be his waning popularity, which John answered by re-explaining his mission as a forerunner. When Jesus learned of this, He left Judea for Galilee, going through Samaria and pausing at Jacob’s well where He had a conversation with a Samaritan woman that resulted in many believing on Him. When he later arrived in Galilee, He went to Cana where He performed His second miracle, the healing of the nobleman’s son.

John 3:22-36

{22} After these things Jesus and His disciples came into the land of Judea, and there He remained with them and baptized. {23} Now John also was baptizing in Aenon near Salim, because there was much water there. And they came and were baptized. {24} For John had not yet been thrown into prison. {25} Then there arose a dispute between some of John’s disciples and the Jews about purification. {26} And they came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, He who was with you beyond the Jordan, to whom you have testified; behold, He is baptizing, and all are coming to Him!” {27} John answered and said, “A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven. {28} “You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ,’ but, ‘I have been sent before Him.’ {29} “He who has the bride is the bridegroom; but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore this joy of mine is fulfilled. {30} “He must increase, but I must decrease. {31} “He who comes from above is above all; he who is of the earth is earthly and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all. {32} “And what He has seen and heard, that He testifies; and no one receives His testimony {33} He who has his testamony has certified that God is true. {34} “For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure. {35} “The Father loves the Son, and has given all things into His hand. {36} “He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.”

John 4:1-54

{1} Therefore, when the Lord knew that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John {2} (though Jesus Himself did not baptize, but His disciples), {3} He left Judea and departed again to Galilee. {4} But He needed to go through Samaria. {5} So He came to a city of Samaria which is called Sychar, near the plot of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. {6} Now Jacob’s well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied from His journey, sat thus by the well. It was about the sixth hour. {7} A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink.” {8} For His disciples had gone away into the city to buy food. {9} Then the woman of Samaria said to Him, “How is it that You, being a Jew, ask a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?” For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans. {10} Jesus answered and said to her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.” {11} The woman said to Him, “Sir, You have nothing to draw with, and the well is deep. Where then do You get that living water? {12} “Are You greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank from it himself, as well as his sons and his livestock?” {13} Jesus answered and said to her, “Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, {14} “but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.” {15} The woman said to Him, “Sir, give me this water, that I may not thirst, nor come here to draw.” {16} Jesus said to her, “Go, call your husband, and come here.” {17} The woman answered and said, “I have no husband.” Jesus said to her, “You have well said, ‘I have no husband,’ {18} “for you have had five husbands, and the one whom you now have is not your husband; in that you spoke truly.” {19} The woman said to Him, “Sir, I perceive that You are a prophet. {20} “Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, and you Jews say that in Jerusalem is the place where one ought to worship.” {21} Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when you will neither on this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father. {22} “You worship what you do not know; we know what we worship, for salvation is of the Jews. {23} “But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. {24} “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” {25} The woman said to Him, “I know that Messiah is coming” (who is called Christ). “When He comes, He will tell us all things.” {26} Jesus said to her, “I who speak to you am He.” {27} And at this point His disciples came, and they marveled that He talked with a woman; yet no one said, “What do You seek?” or, “Why are You talking with her?” {28} The woman then left her waterpot, went her way into the city, and said to the men, {29} “Come, see a Man who told me all things that I ever did. Could this be the Christ?” {30} Then they went out of the city and came to Him. {31} In the meantime His disciples urged Him, saying, “Rabbi, eat.” {32} But He said to them, “I have food to eat of which you do not know.” {33} Therefore the disciples said to one another, “Has anyone brought Him anything to eat?” {34} Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work. {35} “Do you not say, ‘There are still four months and then comes the harvest’? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest! {36} “And he who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life, that both he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together. {37} “For in this the saying is true: ‘One sows and another reaps.’ {38} “I sent you to reap that for which you have not labored; others have labored, and you have entered into their labors.” {39} And many of the Samaritans of that city believed in Him because of the word of the woman who testified, “He told me all that I ever did.” {40} So when the Samaritans had come to Him, they urged Him to stay with them; and He stayed there two days. {41} And many more believed because of His own word. {42} Then they said to the woman, “Now we believe, not because of what you said, for we ourselves have heard Him and we know that this is indeed the Christ, the Savior of the world.”
{43} Now after the two days He departed from there and went to Galilee. {44} For Jesus Himself testified that a prophet has no honor in his own country. {45} So when He came to Galilee, the Galileans received Him, having seen all the things He did in Jerusalem at the feast; for they also had gone to the feast. {46} So Jesus came again to Cana of Galilee where He had made the water wine. And there was a certain nobleman whose son was sick at Capernaum. {47} When he heard that Jesus had come out of Judea into Galilee, he went to Him and implored Him to come down and heal his son, for he was at the point of death. {48} Then Jesus said to him, “Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will by no means believe.” {49} The nobleman said to Him, “Sir, come down before my child dies!” {50} Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your son lives.” So the man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him, and he went his way. {51} And as he was now going down, his servants met him and told him, saying, “Your son lives!” {52} Then he inquired of them the hour when he got better. And they said to him, “Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him.” {53} So the father knew that it was at the same hour in which Jesus said to him, “Your son lives.” And he himself believed, and his whole household. {54} This again is the second sign Jesus did when He had come out of Judea into Galilee.

Matthew 4:12-1

{12} Now when Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, He departed to Galilee. {13} And leaving Nazareth, He came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is by the sea, in the regions of Zebulun and Naphtali, {14} that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying: {15} “The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, By the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles: {16} The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, And upon those who sat in the region and shadow of death Light has dawned.” {17} From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

Mark 1:14,15

{14} Now after John was put in prison, Jesus came to Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, {15} and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.”

Luke 3:19,20

(Luke 3:19-20) But Herod the tetrarch, being rebuked by him concerning Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done, {20} also added this, above all, that he shut John up in prison.

Luke 4:14,15

{14} Then Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and news of Him went out through all the surrounding region. {15} And He taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all.

Questions on Lesson Seven

1. At what hour did Jesus arrive at jacob’s well?
2. Where did the nobleman live whose son Jesus healed?
3. How shall true worshippers worship God?
4. Whom did Jesus tell the woman to go and call?
5. Where was John baptizing?
6. What of the man that does not believe on the Son? (2 answers)
7. What did Jesus say He could give to the Samaritan woman?
8. Jesus confessed to being whom to the Samaritan woman?
9. How many husbands had the Samaritan woman had?
10. John said that Jesus must ________________, while he must __________________.
11. Where were the disciples of Jesus while He was talking with the woman?
12. At what hour did Jesus heal the nobleman’s son?
13. What is Jesus’ meat?
14. What was the subject of the questioning between some of John’s disciples and the Jews?
15. What is God?
16. Why was the Samaritan woman startled when Jesus asked her for a drink?
17. How long did Jesus remain in Samaria?
18. How does God not give the Spirit to Jesus?
19. After talking with Jesus, what did the woman conclude that Jesus was?
20. What was the name of the city in Samaria where Jesus stopped?

Lesson 8

The Life and Mission of Jesus Christ on Earth

Our last lesson brought to an end the second period of Jesus’ life (Period of Inauguration). In closing that period of His life, Jesus left Jerusalem, passed through Samaria where He talked with the woman at the well, and then went on into Galilee to Cana where He healed the son of a nobleman. To begin the third period (Early Galilean Ministry), Jesus left Cana and went to Nazareth where he was rejected by the people of His home town. From there He returned to Capernaum where He began living and which was used by Him as a sort of “headquarters” for His travels in Galilee. While in Capernaum He cast out an unclean spirit, and then went down by the sea where He called Peter, Andrew, James and John to follow Him. He then healed Peter’s mother-in-law and many others who were brought to Him.

Matthew 4:12-22

{12} Now when Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, He departed to Galilee. {13} And leaving Nazareth, He came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is by the sea, in the regions of Zebulun and Naphtali, {14} that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying: {15} “The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, By the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles: {16} The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, And upon those who sat in the region and shadow of death Light has dawned.” {17} From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” {18} And Jesus, walking by the Sea of Galilee, saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. {19} Then He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” {20} They immediately left their nets and followed Him. {21} Going on from there, He saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets. He called them, {22} and immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed Him.

Mark 1:16-20
{16} And as He walked by the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. {17} Then Jesus said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men.” {18} They immediately left their nets and followed Him. {19} When He had gone a little farther from there, He saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the boat mending their nets. {20} And immediately He called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants, and went after Him.

Mark 1:32-34

{32} At evening, when the sun had set, they brought to Him all who were sick and those who were demon-possessed. {33} And the whole city was gathered together at the door. {34} Then He healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons; and He did not allow the demons to speak, because they knew Him.

Luke 4:14-41

{14} Then Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and news of Him went out through all the surrounding region. {15} And He taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all. {16} So He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read. {17} And He was handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the book, He found the place where it was written: {18} “The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; {19} To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD.” {20} Then He closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all who were in the synagogue were fixed on Him. {21} And He began to say to them, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” {22} So all bore witness to Him, and marveled at the gracious words which proceeded out of His mouth. And they said, “Is this not Joseph’s son?” {23} He said to them, “You will surely say this proverb to Me, ‘Physician, heal yourself! Whatever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in Your country.'” {24} Then He said, “Assuredly, I say to you, no prophet is accepted in his own country. {25} “But I tell you truly, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elijah, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, and there was a great famine throughout all the land; {26} “but to none of them was Elijah sent except to Zarephath, in the region of Sidon, to a woman who was a widow. {27} “And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Elisha the prophet, and none of them was cleansed except Naaman the Syrian.” {28} So all those in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were filled with wrath, {29} and rose up and thrust Him out of the city; and they led Him to the brow of the hill on which their city was built, that they might throw Him down over the cliff. {30} Then passing through the midst of them, He went His way. {31} Then He went down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and was teaching them on the Sabbaths. {32} And they were astonished at His teaching, for His word was with authority. {33} Now in the synagogue there was a man who had a spirit of an unclean demon. And he cried out with a loud voice, {34} saying, “Let us alone! What have we to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth? Did You come to destroy us? I know who You are; the Holy One of God!” {35} But Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be quiet, and come out of him!” And when the demon had thrown him in their midst, it came out of him and did not hurt him. {36} Then they were all amazed and spoke among themselves, saying, “What a word this is! For with authority and power He commands the unclean spirits, and they come out.” {37} And the report about Him went out into every place in the surrounding region. {38} Now He arose from the synagogue and entered Simon’s house. But Simon’s wife’s mother was sick with a high fever, and they made request of Him concerning her. {39} So He stood over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her. And immediately she arose and served them. {40} When the sun was setting, all those who had any that were sick with various diseases brought them to Him; and He laid His hands on every one of them and healed them. {41} And demons also came out of many, crying out and saying, “You are the Christ, the Son of God!” And He, rebuking them, did not allow them to speak, for they knew that He was the Christ.

Luke 5:1-11

{1} So it was, as the multitude pressed about Him to hear the word of God, that He stood by the Lake of Gennesaret, {2} and saw two boats standing by the lake; but the fishermen had gone from them and were washing their nets. {3} Then He got into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And He sat down and taught the multitudes from the boat. {4} When He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon, “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” {5} But Simon answered and said to Him, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.” {6} And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking. {7} So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. {8} When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!” {9} For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish which they had taken; {10} and so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.” {11} So when they had brought their boats to land, they forsook all and followed Him.

Questions on Lesson Eight

1. What did Jesus tell Peter and Andrew that He would make of them? When had Peter and Andrew met
Jesus before this time?
2. Who was left behind to help Zebedee when his two sons went with Jesus?
3. “And Jesus returned in _____ __________ of the __________ into _______________.”
4. What was customary for Jesus to do on the Sabbath day?
5. Name one event that prompted Jesus to go into Galilee.
6. How long were the heavens shut up during the time of Elijah (Elias)?
7. Who were the sons of Zebedee? What were they doing when Jesus called them?
8. Whom did the unclean spirit in the man in Capernaum’s synagogue confess Jesus to be?
9. Instead of staying in His home town, where did Jesus settle in Galilee?
10. Where did the widow live to whom Elijah was sent?
11. Who were fishing partners with Peter and Andrew?
12. In the borders of which two Old Testament tribes did Jesus settle? What O.T. prophecy was fulfilled in his doing this? (chapter and verse)
13. How did Jesus avoid being put to death by the people of Nazareth?
14. What was peculiar about the teaching of Jesus in the synagogues that cause many to be astonished?
15. When Jesus stood up to read in the synagogue, what book was given to Him? What portion (chapter and verse) of that book did Jesus read from? When He finished reading, what did He say about the Scripture He had read?
16. What were the first two miracles performed by Jesus in Capernaum?
17. What leper did Elisha (Eliseus) cleanse?
18. What was the nature of the sickness of Peter’s mother-in-law?
19. What event caused Peter to fall down before Jesus and confess that he was a sinful man?
20. Jesus left Jerusalem to go into Galilee, and upon His arrival there He went first to Cana; after Cana, where did He go and preach?
21. Why did Jesus not allow the devils to speak?

Lesson 9

The Life and Mission of Jesus Christ on Earth

In our previous lesson we left Jesus in Capernaum at sunset, still healing people of various diseases. In this lesson we find Jesus early the next morning leaving Capernaum to go to a desert place for solitude and prayer. The crowds found Him, though, and He announced to His disciples that He would go to preach in the other cities of Galilee also. Matthew informs us that He went about in all Galilee teaching in the synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and disease. Matthew does not deal with the details of these travels, but both Mark and Luke give a more complete description of the activities of Jesus on these journeys. Somewhere in His travels He healed a leper which forced Him to flee temporarily into desert places. Following this, He reentered Capernaum where He healed the palsied man that was let down to Him through the rooftop, and, as a consequence, argued for His power to forgive sins. We are then told that Jesus went down by the seaside where He selected Levi (Matthew, cf. Matt. 9:9-17 for Matthew’s own account of this) to be one of His disciples. At a feast given by Levi (Matthew), Jesus ate with publicans and sinners, defending His right to do so. At this feast He also answered inquiries of some scribes and Pharisees concerning differences between the disciples of John (the Baptizer) and His own disciples, and showed that He did not intend to allow them to force His teaching and practices into their pattern of how they thought it should be.

Luke 4:42-44

{42} Now when it was day, He departed and went into a deserted place. And the crowd sought Him and came to Him, and tried to keep Him from leaving them; {43} but He said to them, “I must preach the kingdom of God to the other cities also, because for this purpose I have been sent.” {44} And He was preaching in the synagogues of Galilee.

Luke 5:12-39

{12} And it happened when He was in a certain city, that behold, a man who was full of leprosy saw Jesus; and he fell on his face and implored Him, saying, “Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.” {13} Then He put out His hand and touched him, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed.” Immediately the leprosy left him. {14} And He charged him to tell no one, “But go and show yourself to the priest, and make an offering for your cleansing, as a testimony to them, just as Moses commanded.” {15} However, the report went around concerning Him all the more; and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by Him of their infirmities. {16} So He Himself often withdrew into the wilderness and prayed. {17} Now it happened on a certain day, as He was teaching, that there were Pharisees and teachers of the law sitting by, who had come out of every town of Galilee, Judea, and Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was present to heal them. {18} Then behold, men brought on a bed a man who was paralyzed, whom they sought to bring in and lay before Him. {19} And when they could not find how they might bring him in, because of the crowd, they went up on the housetop and let him down with his bed through the tiling into the midst before Jesus. {20} When He saw their faith, He said to him, “Man, your sins are forgiven you.” {21} And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, “Who is this who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” {22} But when Jesus perceived their thoughts, He answered and said to them, “Why are you reasoning in your hearts? {23} “Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Rise up and walk’? {24} “But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins”; He said to the man who was paralyzed, “I say to you, arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.” {25} Immediately he rose up before them, took up what he had been lying on, and departed to his own house, glorifying God. {26} And they were all amazed, and they glorified God and were filled with fear, saying, “We have seen strange things today!” {27} After these things He went out and saw a tax collector named Levi, sitting at the tax office. And He said to him, “Follow Me.” {28} So he left all, rose up, and followed Him. {29} Then Levi gave Him a great feast in his own house. And there were a great number of tax collectors and others who sat down with them. {30} And their scribes and the Pharisees complained against His disciples, saying, “Why do You eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” {31} Jesus answered and said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. {32} “I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.” {33} Then they said to Him, “Why do the disciples of John fast often and make prayers, and likewise those of the Pharisees, but Yours eat and drink?” {34} And He said to them, “Can you make the friends of the bridegroom fast while the bridegroom is with them? {35} “But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them; then they will fast in those days.” {36} Then He spoke a parable to them: “No one puts a piece from a new garment on an old one; otherwise the new makes a tear, and also the piece that was taken out of the new does not match the old. {37} “And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; or else the new wine will burst the wineskins and be spilled, and the wineskins will be ruined. {38} “But new wine must be put into new wineskins, and both are preserved. {39} “And no one, having drunk old wine, immediately desires new; for he says, ‘The old is better.'”
Mark 1:35-45
{35} Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed. {36} And Simon and those who were with Him searched for Him. {37} When they found Him, they said to Him, “Everyone is looking for You.” {38} But He said to them, “Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also, because for this purpose I have come forth.” {39} And He was preaching in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and casting out demons. {40} Now a leper came to Him, imploring Him, kneeling down to Him and saying to Him, “If You are willing, You can make me clean.” {41} Then Jesus, moved with compassion, stretched out His hand and touched him, and said to him, “I am willing; be cleansed.” {42} As soon as He had spoken, immediately the leprosy left him, and he was cleansed. {43} And He strictly warned him and sent him away at once, {44} and said to him, “See that you say nothing to anyone; but go your way, show yourself to the priest, and offer for your cleansing those things which Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.” {45} However, he went out and began to proclaim it freely, and to spread the matter, so that Jesus could no longer openly enter the city, but was outside in deserted places; and they came to Him from every direction.

Mark 2:1-22

{1} And again He entered Capernaum after some days, and it was heard that He was in the house. {2} Immediately many gathered together, so that there was no longer room to receive them, not even near the door. And He preached the word to them. {3} Then they came to Him, bringing a paralytic who was carried by four men. {4} And when they could not come near Him because of the crowd, they uncovered the roof where He was. So when they had broken through, they let down the bed on which the paralytic was lying. {5} When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven you.” {6} And some of the scribes were sitting there and reasoning in their hearts, {7} “Why does this Man speak blasphemies like this? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” {8} But immediately, when Jesus perceived in His spirit that they reasoned thus within themselves, He said to them, “Why do you reason about these things in your hearts? {9} “Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Arise, take up your bed and walk’? {10} “But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins”; He said to the paralytic, {11} “I say to you, arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.” {12} Immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went out in the presence of them all, so that all were amazed and glorified God, saying, “We never saw anything like this!” {13} Then He went out again by the sea; and all the multitude came to Him, and He taught them. {14} As He passed by, He saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax office. And He said to him, “Follow Me.” So he arose and followed Him. {15} Now it happened, as He was dining in Levi’s house, that many tax collectors and sinners also sat together with Jesus and His disciples; for there were many, and they followed Him. {16} And when the scribes and Pharisees saw Him eating with the tax collectors and sinners, they said to His disciples, “How is it that He eats and drinks with tax collectors and sinners?” {17} When Jesus heard it, He said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.” {18} The disciples of John and of the Pharisees were fasting. Then they came and said to Him, “Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but Your disciples do not fast?” {19} And Jesus said to them, “Can the friends of the bridegroom fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them they cannot fast. {20} “But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast in those days. {21} “No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment; or else the new piece pulls away from the old, and the tear is made worse. {22} “And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; or else the new wine bursts the wineskins, the wine is spilled, and the wineskins are ruined. But new wine must be put into new wineskins.”

Matthew 4:23-25

{23} And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people. {24} Then His fame went throughout all Syria; and they brought to Him all sick people who were afflicted with various diseases and torments, and those who were demon-possessed, epileptics, and paralytics; and He healed them. {25} Great multitudes followed Him; from Galilee, and from Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea, and beyond the Jordan.

Matthew 8:2-4

And behold, a leper came and worshipped Him, saying, “Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.” {3} Then Jesus put out His hand and touched him, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed.” Immediately his leprosy was cleansed. {4} And Jesus said to him, “See that you tell no one; but go your way, show yourself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.”

Matthew 9:1-17

{1} So He got into a boat, crossed over, and came to His own city. {2} Then behold, they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you.” {3} And at once some of the scribes said within themselves, “This Man blasphemes!” {4} But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? {5} “For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Arise and walk’? {6} “But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins”; then He said to the paralytic, “Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.” {7} And he arose and departed to his house. {8} Now when the multitudes saw it, they marveled and glorified God, who had given such power to men. {9} As Jesus passed on from there, He saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax office. And He said to him, “Follow Me.” So he arose and followed Him. {10} Now it happened, as Jesus sat at the table in the house, that behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat down with Him and His disciples. {11} And when the Pharisees saw it, they said to His disciples, “Why does your Teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” {12} When Jesus heard that, He said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. {13} “But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy and not sacrifice.’ For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.” {14} Then the disciples of John came to Him, saying, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but Your disciples do not fast?” {15} And Jesus said to them, “Can the friends of the bridegroom mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast. {16} “No one puts a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment; for the patch pulls away from the garment, and the tear is made worse. {17} “Nor do they put new wine into old wineskins, or else the wineskins break, the wine is spilled, and the wineskins are ruined. But they put new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved.”

Questions on Lesson Nine

1. Of what did the scribes who heard and saw Jesus forgive the palsied man of his sins accuse Jesus? How did Jesus prove He was not guilty of this charge?
2. Into what do men put new wine?
3. Who came into the wilderness looking for Jesus after He had gone out there early in the morning?
4. Jesus said: “I will have ________, and not _____________.” To what was Jesus referring in this statement?
5. What did those who witnessed the healing of the palsied man say (not the scribes)?
6. Jesus came to call sinners to what?
7. When Jesus went about in all Galilee, what did He preach?
8. Who was Levi’s father?
9. What instructions did Jesus give the leper whom He healed?
10. How many men brought the palsied man to Jesus?
11. What is the meaning of Jesus’ teaching in Luke 5:36-39?
12. The fame of Jesus went throughout all _____________________.
13. When Jesus perceived the faith of the ones who let the palsied man down through the roof at Capernaum, what did He say to the palsied man?
14. From where did the multitudes who followed Jesus come?
15. What did Levi do for Jesus?
16. How did Jesus answer the Pharisees who questioned His eating with the publicans and the sinners?
17. Where did Jesus go after healing the palsied man in Capernaum?
18. What statement did the leper make indicating his faith in Jesus?

Lesson 10

The Life and Mission of Jesus Christ on Earth

Jesus attended the second Passover of His ministry (traveling from Capernaum to Jerusalem and back to Capernaum). After His preaching tour through eastern Galilee, Jesus went down to jerusalem to attend the annual Passover for the second time since the beginning of His ministry. While in Jerusalem, Jesus healed the sick man at the Bethesda pool on the Sabbath day, and then defended His action when the Jews began to persecute Him for the miracle. It was probably on the return trip from Jerusalem to Galilee when He and His disciples passed through the grain fields, and the disciples plucked some of the grain on the Sabbath, for which they were questioned by the Pharisees. After their arrival back in Galilee Jesus healed a man’s withered hand, again on the Sabbath, and, perceiving their hardened hearts, He challenged the Pharisees to speak against Him. This they did not do, having lost their previous encounters with Him, but, instead, they went out and took counsel with the Heroidans as to how they might kill Jesus, which resulted in Jesus going down by the seaside, where He continued teaching and performing miracles as the multitudes gathered around Him.

John 5:1-47

{1} After this there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. {2} Now there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool, which is called in Hebrew, Bethesda, having five porches. {3} In these lay a great multitude of sick people, blind, lame, paralyzed, waiting for the moving of the water. {4} For an angel went down at a certain time into the pool and stirred up the water; then whoever stepped in first, after the stirring of the water, was made well of whatever disease he had. {5} Now a certain man was there who had an infirmity thirty-eight years. {6} When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he already had been in that condition a long time, He said to him, “Do you want to be made well?” {7} The sick man answered Him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; but while I am coming, another steps down before me.” {8} Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your bed and walk.” {9} And immediately the man was made well, took up his bed, and walked. And that day was the Sabbath. {10} The Jews therefore said to him who was cured, “It is the Sabbath; it is not lawful for you to carry your bed.” {11} He answered them, “He who made me well said to me, ‘Take up your bed and walk.'” {12} Then they asked him, “Who is the Man who said to you, ‘Take up your bed and walk’?” {13} But the one who was healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had withdrawn, a multitude being in that place. {14} Afterward Jesus found him in the temple, and said to him, “See, you have been made well. Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you.” {15} The man departed and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had made him well. {16} For this reason the Jews persecuted Jesus, and sought to kill Him, because He had done these things on the Sabbath. {17} But Jesus answered them, “My Father has been working until now, and I have been working.” {18} Therefore the Jews sought all the more to kill Him, because He not only broke the Sabbath, but also said that God was His Father, making Himself equal with God. {19} Then Jesus answered and said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner. {20} “For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself does; and He will show Him greater works than these, that you may marvel. {21} “For as the Father raises the dead and gives life to them, even so the Son gives life to whom He will. {22} “For the Father judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the Son, {23} “that all should honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him. {24} “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life. {25} “Most assuredly, I say to you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God; and those who hear will live. {26} “For as the Father has life in Himself, so He has granted the Son to have life in Himself, {27} “and has given Him authority to execute judgment also, because He is the Son of Man. {28} “Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice {29} “and come forth; those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation. {30} “I can of Myself do nothing. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is righteous, because I do not seek My own will but the will of the Father who sent Me. {31} “If I bear witness of Myself, My witness is not true. {32} “There is another who bears witness of Me, and I know that the witness which He witnesses of Me is true. {33} “You have sent to John, and he has borne witness to the truth. {34} “Yet I do not receive testimony from man, but I say these things that you may be saved. {35} “He was the burning and shining lamp, and you were willing for a time to rejoice in his light. {36} “But I have a greater witness than John’s; for the works which the Father has given Me to finish; the very works that I do; bear witness of Me, that the Father has sent Me. {37} “And the Father Himself, who sent Me, has testified of Me. You have neither heard His voice at any time, nor seen His form. {38} “But you do not have His word abiding in you, because whom He sent, Him you do not believe. {39} “You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me. {40} “But you are not willing to come to Me that you may have life. {41} “I do not receive honor from men. {42} “But I know you, that you do not have the love of God in you. {43} “I have come in My Father’s name, and you do not receive Me; if another comes in his own name, him you will receive. {44} “How can you believe, who receive honor from one another, and do not seek the honor that comes from the only God? {45} “Do not think that I shall accuse you to the Father; there is one who accuses you; Moses, in whom you trust. {46} “For if you believed Moses, you would believe Me; for he wrote about Me. {47} “But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe My words?”

Mark 2:23-28

{23} Now it happened that He went through the grainfields on the Sabbath; and as they went His disciples began to pluck the heads of grain. {24} And the Pharisees said to Him, “Look, why do they do what is not lawful on the Sabbath?” {25} But He said to them, “Have you never read what David did when he was in need and hungry, he and those with him: {26} “how he went into the house of God in the days of Abiathar the high priest, and ate the showbread, which is not lawful to eat, except for the priests, and also gave some to those who were with him?” {27} And He said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath. {28} “Therefore the Son of Man is also Lord of the Sabbath.”

Mark 3:1-12

{1} And He entered the synagogue again, and a man was there who had a withered hand. {2} So they watched Him closely, whether He would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse Him. {3} And He said to the man who had the withered hand, “Step forward.” {4} Then He said to them, “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” But they kept silent. {5} And when He had looked around at them with anger, being grieved by the hardness of their hearts, He said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” And he stretched it out, and his hand was restored as whole as the other. {6} Then the Pharisees went out and immediately plotted with the Herodians against Him, how they might destroy Him. {7} But Jesus withdrew with His disciples to the sea. And a great multitude from Galilee followed Him, and from Judea {8} and Jerusalem and Idumea and beyond the Jordan; and those from Tyre and Sidon, a great multitude, when they heard how many things He was doing, came to Him. {9} So He told His disciples that a small boat should be kept ready for Him because of the multitude, lest they should crush Him. {10} For He healed many, so that as many as had afflictions pressed about Him to touch Him. {11} And the unclean spirits, whenever they saw Him, fell down before Him and cried out, saying, “You are the Son of God.” {12} But He sternly warned them that they should not make Him known.

Matthew 12:1-21

{1} At that time Jesus went through the grainfields on the Sabbath. And His disciples were hungry, and began to pluck heads of grain and to eat. {2} And when the Pharisees saw it, they said to Him, “Look, Your disciples are doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath!” {3} But He said to them, “Have you not read what David did when he was hungry, he and those who were with him: {4} “how he entered the house of God and ate the showbread which was not lawful for him to eat, nor for those who were with him, but only for the priests? {5} “Or have you not read in the law that on the Sabbath the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath, and are blameless? {6} “Yet I say to you that in this place there is One greater than the temple. {7} “But if you had known what this means, ‘I desire mercy and not sacrifice,’ you would not have condemned the guiltless. {8} “For the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.” {9} Now when He had departed from there, He went into their synagogue. {10} And behold, there was a man who had a withered hand. And they asked Him, saying, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?”; that they might accuse Him. {11} Then He said to them, “What man is there among you who has one sheep, and if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not lay hold of it and lift it out? {12} “Of how much more value then is a man than a sheep? Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.” {13} Then He said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” And he stretched it out, and it was restored as whole as the other. {14} Then the Pharisees went out and plotted against Him, how they might destroy Him.{15} But when Jesus knew it, He withdrew from there. And great multitudes followed Him, and He healed them all. {16} Yet He warned them not to make Him known, {17} that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying: {18} “Behold! My Servant whom I have chosen, My Beloved in whom My soul is well pleased! I will put My Spirit upon Him, And He will declare justice to the Gentiles. {19} He will not quarrel nor cry out, Nor will anyone hear His voice in the streets. {20} A bruised reed He will not break, And smoking flax He will not quench, Till He sends forth justice to victory; {21} And in His name Gentiles will trust.”

Luke 6:1-11

{1} Now it happened on the second Sabbath after the first that He went through the grainfields. And His disciples plucked the heads of grain and ate them, rubbing them in their hands. {2} And some of the Pharisees said to them, “Why are you doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath?” {3} But Jesus answering them said, “Have you not even read this, what David did when he was hungry, he and those who were with him: {4} “how he went into the house of God, took and ate the showbread, and also gave some to those with him, which is not lawful for any but the priests to eat?” {5} And He said to them, “The Son of Man is also Lord of the Sabbath.” {6} Now it happened on another Sabbath, also, that He entered the synagogue and taught. And a man was there whose right hand was withered. {7} So the scribes and Pharisees watched Him closely, whether He would heal on the Sabbath, that they might find an accusation against Him. {8} But He knew their thoughts, and said to the man who had the withered hand, “Arise and stand here.” And he arose and stood. {9} Then Jesus said to them, “I will ask you one thing: Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy?” {10} And when He had looked around at them all, He said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” And he did so, and his hand was restored as whole as the other. {11} But they were filled with rage, and discussed with one another what they might do to Jesus.

Questions on Lesson Ten

1. What does the Son of God give to whom He will?
2. For whom is the Sabbath made?
3. When the multitudes from all over Galilee began to press upon Jesus, what did He have His disciples do to help Him escape?
4. On whom had the Jews set their hope?
5. What was the Hebrew name of the pool where Jesus healed the crippled man?
6. With whom did the Pharisees take counsel to destroy Jesus?
7. What did Jesus say the Jews did not have in them? (2 answers)
8. Will there be a lapse of time (1000 years) between the resurrection of the righteous and the resurrection of the wicked? (Give reasons for your answer with proof from the fifth chapter of John.)
9. Whom did Jesus heal on the Sabbath day (2 answers)
10. What question did Jesus ask of the crippled man at Jerusalem?
11. What did David do when he was hungry?
12. What shall happen to the dead who hear the voice of the Son of God?
13. For what purpose were the Pharisees watching Jesus in the synagogue?
14. What attitude did the Pharisees have that caused Jesus to be grieved?
15. How many porches were at the pool in Jerusalem where Jesus performed a miracle?
16. What two things did Jesus say would bear witness of Him?
17. Who was the high priest when David ate the showbread?
18. “Therefore the _____ of _____ is Lord also of the _______________.”
19. What did the healed man do that the Jews said was unlawful?
20. Whom did Jesus say had borne witness to the truth?
21. Unto what shall those who have done evil come forth?
22. With whom did the Pharisees take counsel as to how to kill Jesus?
23. According to Jesus, who would accuse the Jews before God?
24. How many years had the man who Jesus healed been sick?
25. What statement did Jesus make which implied that He was equal with God?
26. To whom has all judgment been given?